Nature scenes including trees and forests contain multiple mythic and symbolic qualities. The deep-rooted meaning of trees is apparent in common metaphors such as the Tree of Life and our ancestral heritage depicted in family trees. In Vedic philosophy, wood is viewed as the primal material of the universe. Christians see Christ as the cosmic carpenter and His ultimate sacrifice is represented by a wooden cross.

Specific trees in art symbolism also have their own meanings. The oak is the mightiest of trees and symbolizes strength and courage. The ancient Romans thought oak trees attracted lightening and connected the oak tree to the sky god, Jupiter and his wife, Juno, the goddess of marriage. Thus, the oak is used in art symbolism as a symbol of conjugal fidelity and fulfillment. The oak tree was regarded by Socrates as an oracle tree. The Druids likewise ate acorns in preparation for prophesying. In addition, the Druids believed the leaves of the oak tree had the power to heal and renew strength.

The apple tree is symbolic of magic, youth, beauty and happiness. The cedar tree represents healing, cleansing and protection. Palm trees are symbolic of peace and opportunity. The symbolism associated with many other trees is summarized below:

Apple tree symbolism- magic, youth, beauty, happiness

Ash tree symbolism - sacrifice, sensitivity and higher awareness

Aspen tree symbolism- determination, overcoming fears and doubts

Beech tree symbolism- tolerance, past knowledge, softens over criticism

Birch tree symbolism- new beginnings, cleansing of past, vision quests

Cedar tree symbolism- healing, cleansing, protection

Cherry tree symbolism - death and rebirth, new awakenings

Cypress tree symbolism - understanding the role of sacrifice

Elder tree symbolism- birth and death, fairy realm

Elm tree symbolism- strength of will, intuition

Hazel tree symbolism- hidden wisdom, dousing, divination

Heather tree symbolism- healing from within, immortality, initiation

Holly tree symbolism- protection, overcoming of anger, spiritual warrior

Maple tree symbolism- balance, promise, practicality

Palm tree symbolism- peace and opportunity

Pine tree symbolism - creativity, life, longevity, immortality

Willow tree symbolism- magic, healing, inner vision, dreams

Choose an image of tree based on its art symbolism to decorate your home or office. This will serve as an effective visual reminder of your goals and help you to fulfill your dreams and visions for your life.

Kathleen Karlsen is a professional artist, writer and design consultant residing in Bozeman, Montana. Kathleen is best known for her contemporary impressionism style and her colorful forest, landscape and flower paintings. Kathleen's original art and fine art gifts can be seen at http://www.livingartsoriginals.com For an extensive article about flower symbolism see http://www.livingartsoriginals.com/infoflowersymbolism.htm To see a selection of Kathleen's flower paintings, please visit http://www.livingartsoriginals.com/originalfloralart.htm

Source: www.isnare.com